Merit Badges

Merit Badges are like independent study courses which are required for Scouting's advanced ranks:  Star, Life and Eagle Scout.  There are over 130 different subjects in the merit badge program and Scouts can learn about sports, crafts, science, trades, business, future careers and many other areas as they earn merit badges. It is said that 15% of Scouts learn about their eventual career through the merit badge program!

Of the many subjects, some merit badges are electives (green embroidered borders), and some are required for Eagle rank (silver embroidered borders). 

Please note that with few exceptions, Troop 267 does not permit Scouts to take Eagle Required badges in group setting such as Council or camp. Some non-Eagle badges may be earned in a group setting. Remote/online work is also not permitted.

Furthermore, both Swimming and Lifesaving are REQUIRED for advancement. We feel the skills earned in completing those badges are immeasurable.Scouts who earn the Eagle designated alternates will get credit towards their non-Eagle badge requirements.

​

Merit badges are not usually taught during regular meetings.  Although there are some exceptions to the rule, most badges are to be completed individually and independently. Technically, a Scout does not need have any particular rank to earn merit badges, but 267 does use guidelines such as age and rank to ensure:

• a Scout has the maturity to take a particular badge,

• a Scout has the foundational education to take a particular badge,

• a Scout has actually mastered the material,

• and that the paperwork is properly registered by the Troop, the Council and the National BSA organization.

To that end, Troop 267 has specific Merit Badge Rules and Guidelines. Please honor them.

The procedure isn't difficult, but it must be followed.  Watch this short Merit Badge Process Video to learn about it here.  Parents can watch this longer video to learn the basics of Scouting Advancement, generally.  To be sure corners are not cut, Scoutmasters and the Advancement chairperson have ultimate discretion to approve or reject applications for merit badges and ranks.

​

Scouts can be any rank to begin most merit badges, but cannot wear a sash until at least 6 merit badges have been earned.  The sash is available online or at the Scout Shop and is worn across the right shoulder, so the left pocket (which displays the Scout's rank) is always visible.